Vanpooling is a convenient and popular way to go, especially for people who work far from home. A vanpool is a group of people who commute together on a regular basis in a van—and a great way to get to work without the expense and stress of driving alone.
CommuteSmart.info can help you find a vanpool 
—there are currently more than 1,000 on the road in Southern California and many are seeking new riders. Don’t see one in your area? It’s easier than you might think to start a new vanpool.
Vanpoolers can save thousands of dollars each year over the cost of driving alone.
What is vanpooling?
A vanpool is a group of seven to 15 people who commute together on a regular basis in a van. One person usually drives and maintains the van while riders pay a monthly fare. Companies sometimes own and operate vanpools, offering employees the chance to ride at a reduced rate as a “perk.” Others are organized and run by a pool of individual commuters.
Is vanpooling the right choice for me?
Do you commute a long distance (at least 15 miles one way)? Do you work Monday through Friday? Are your hours consistent—or do they have the potential to be? If so, you may be an ideal candidate for vanpooling.
How much does it cost?
Riders pay a monthly fare based on the cost of the vanpool commute. Fares vary depending on the type of van, features, commute distance, number of riders, and so on. The average cost for most vanpools is $70-$120 per person a month.
How do I find a vanpool?
Our ridematching service with more than a quarter-million registrants can provide you with a free list of vanpools that service your commute. Your employer may also have information.
Will a vanpool pick me up at home?
To reduce the number of pick-ups and drop-offs—and therefore ensure that everyone gets to work and home as speedily as possible—most vanpoolers choose to meet at Park & Ride lots. A typical vanpool may make anywhere from one to three stops at Park & Ride lots or other agreed-upon locations along the way.
What if I’m sick or go on vacation? Do I still have to pay for my seat?
Your monthly fare reserves your seat whether you use it or not. If you’ll be gone for an extended amount of time, most vanpools allow you to temporarily “sublet” your seat to another rider. Remember, even if you miss a day here or there, vanpooling is still a bargain compared to driving alone.
What if I’m late or someone else keeps us waiting?
Most vanpools set a standard waiting period, such as five to seven minutes, that the van will remain at a designated stop. Many vanpoolers say that they’re actually grateful that vanpooling allows them to leave work on time.
Is smoking allowed?
Most vanpools have established rules that cover such ground as whether smoking is okay, if they’re going to play the radio, how long they’ll wait for a tardy rider and so on. The driver or vanpool coordinator sets some policies; others may be up for a “vote” by riders.
What are the benefits of vanpooling?
Not only can you save thousands of dollars a year on gas and other commuting costs, you may also be able to save time by traveling in a carpool lane. Some vanpoolers qualify for special perks at the work site such as preferred parking, prize drawings, subsidies and more. And just think how relaxed you’ll be leaving the driving to someone else! It’s no wonder that 98% of vanpoolers say they’d recommend vanpooling to a friend or co-worker.
All information on this page was aquired from CommuteSmart.info. Visit CommuteSmart.info for more information on Vanpooling.